Key Fob Repair Service
Key fobs are subjected to lots of abuse. Buttons can become stuck or break based on how they are stored and how much they are tossed around.
Most key fob issues are simple to fix. Certain issues with key fobs are more severe and require assistance from a professional. This is when locksmiths can be of assistance.
Dead Fob Battery
The car key fobs are pretty intelligent, but that does not mean they won't sometimes get stuck in the "not responding zone". It's time to replace your battery if this happens. This won't fix the issue because it could be due to an issue with the connection on one of the terminals on the battery connector.
Automobile manufacturers are aware of this potential issue, so they often put a spare mechanical key inside the fob for just such an emergency. You can access it by finding the small release button or latch behind the fob. (Check the user's manual for more details). Pressing this can allow you to open the fob, and then gain access to a physical key, which you can use to unlock your car.
It is also necessary to be close to your vehicle in order to lock and unlock it. This is because the transmitter of your fob loses its strength as its battery ages which limits the range of operation.
It's fairly easy to replace the battery. Make sure you purchase the button cell battery (which appears to be like a tiny silver coin) for your fob, and follow the user's guide or video on how to remove the old one. Replace the battery in the exact direction as the old one (the positive side facing upwards towards the buttons). Test the lock/unlock and begin the functions of the fob after reassembling it. This will ensure that the new battery is placed correctly.
You can access key fobs by looking for the latch, screw, or switch in the back, and then tearing the fob off. The fob will need to work with your vehicle, so take care not to harm it! You could also take the key fob to an expert in case you're not comfortable doing it yourself. Most auto shops will swap the battery of a fob for a small fee because it's an everyday repair service. Some dealers may even do it for free dependent on the make and model of your vehicle.
Fob not working
Replace the batteries if the key fob isn't working. This is the quickest fix and is the most likely way to fix the problem. If your fob still isn't working after changing the battery, it could be caused by damage.
Damage can occur to your car key fob for a variety of reasons, including physical trauma, exposure to water or a corroded circuit board. These issues could stop your key from sending a signal to your receiver in your car, which will cause your car's ignition to stop or doors from locking. It is possible that you will need to have a professional replace your key if it's damaged.
The buttons on your device could have become worn-out over time due to repeated use. The rubber may wear out and cause the buttons to become less springy or 'clicky' and eventually, they'll start to fail to register your press accurately. Try wiping the buttons and then adjusting them to see if this fixes the problem However, it's generally recommended to send the fob to be professionally assessed for more extensive repairs.
You should also double check that the new battery you're using is a exact match for your fob. You can find a list online or in a majority of hardware stores. Consult your owner's guide or the engraving on the fob to find out more. If the battery isn't the right one for your needs it could be a problem transmitting strong signals or providing sufficient power to internal components.
In the rarest of cases it could be the case that the issue is not with your key fob but more with the vehicle's receiver or electronic components. You can test this by using a physical key to open the door and then trying to start your vehicle using the inductive backup system (if available). If your key isn't working to car keys repair open or start your vehicle check with a mechanic the electronic components and receiver of your vehicle to determine whether they're working properly.
Fob that is damaged
A key fob is composed of many parts and a single malfunction could cause other components to fail. If a key fob stops working it's important to examine whether there's a clear cause such as a damaged case or a broken internal component. It's also essential to examine other areas of the vehicle like the lights and horn to determine whether they're functioning normally.
It's better to replace the key fob if it's damaged rather than attempt to repair it. It could be necessary to reprogram the fob for the car. This is not something you can do at home, and requires special equipment.
The buttons on a key fob make use of contacts to transmit signals to the circuit board on the key fob however, these contacts will wear down over time. This is most common when the fob is dropped or left in hot temperatures.
As time passes the internal wiring of the key fob may wear down. It could result in buttons that don't function when it is pressed, or works when pressed very strongly. This could also lead to the vehicle not being able to start or unlock once the fob has been used.
The majority of key fobs have the cover in plastic, which can be removed and cleaned safely with soap and warm water. This is a great way to help restore a key fob's its original function and it's a good idea to do it regularly to avoid dirt harming the insides.
A damaged battery is the primary reason that the key fob will not start or function. Many mechanics and dealers can replace the battery in a short time. If you are comfortable installing the battery yourself and are able to do it yourself, you can purchase an additional one from an online store or hardware store and follow the instructions on YouTube or in the owner's guide.
The worst case scenario is that your key fob is damaged internal damage, like cracks small electronic components that aren't fully connected to the circuit boards or corroded and bent battery contact points. If any of these are the scenario, it's a great idea to consult with an auto locksmith or dealer for suggestions on a replacement and help in programming it for your vehicle.
Fob is not programming
The car key fob is a convenient way to start your engine and unlock the doors of your car. When they stop working, or fail to function, they can be frustrating. In some instances the issue could be as simple as replacing the battery but in other cases it could require an intricate repair. The first step is to identify why the fob isn't functioning properly.
The most common reason for a fob to malfunction is that it does not recognize your vehicle. This can happen if the connection between your remote and your car is broken. This connection can be reset without the need for an expensive key fob repair.
If the key fob no longer sending a strong signal, other problems can occur. This can happen if the key is damaged or the battery is dead. In either case, try to reconnect your key to your vehicle. You can do this by following the directions that come with the key fob. Also, you should keep a spare car key in case the primary key fails.
It's also possible that the fob isn't receiving an adequate signal from the car. This can be caused by an insufficient car battery or interference from wireless devices or an antenna issue. You can test the fob and determine whether this is the cause by using an external tester. If the tester doesn't light up when you press one of the buttons, it may be a sign that the battery has to be replaced or that the fob has been damaged.
A car's immobilizer could also hinder the fob from sending a strong signal. This could happen if the key fob isn't programmed correctly to your vehicle, or it's an issue with the software.
If you're unable to repair the fob, or it's not worth the effort to repair it, you should purchase the new one. Many online retailers offer low-cost options and some are delivered to your residence.